A wave of tragedy swept through the agrarian town of Odigbo in Ondo State after a 26-year-old man named Daniel allegedly murdered and beheaded his 17-year-old brother, sparking widespread outrage and a retaliatory mob attack that led to Daniel’s death.
The shocking incident occurred on Monday, prompting a spontaneous protest from angry youths in the community who, upon discovering the act, dragged the suspect to the town square and beat him until he was unconscious. He later died in the hospital on Tuesday morning.
Speaking anonymously, a local resident recounted that the suspect was “caught with the brother’s head” and although he was initially rescued from the mob, he later succumbed to injuries sustained during the beating.
“They later rescued and took him to the hospital, where he finally died this morning (Tuesday),” the source recounted.
Daniel and the deceased, Emmanuel, were reportedly sons of a local policeman. While the motive behind the killing remains unclear, some residents suspect a ritual purpose behind the grisly act.
Another community resident claimed Daniel had placed the severed head in a bag near the river, raising the alarm among villagers.
Roland Akinkunmi, an eyewitness, said, “I was around the palace when I heard people shouting from the Origbara area. On getting to find out what was happening, I saw Daniel holding a human head. At first, I didn’t realise it was his brother’s head because I was confused.”
He added, “Daniel and Emmanuel are of the same parents, and their father is a respected police officer here. We are all in shock. How could someone do this to their blood? They are not from this community. We are still in shock at what could have come over him.”
Akinkunmi also said neighbors mentioned that the brothers had a previous quarrel, but the community suspects something deeper. “In this town, if anyone sheds human blood for money ritual or under any circumstances, the person will be exposed instantly,” he added.
Confirming the incident, Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Olayinka Ayanlade, stated that Commissioner of Police, Mr. Adebowale Lawal, has ordered a thorough investigation.
“The case has been directed to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further and discreet investigation. The Ondo State Police Command is assuring the good people of Ondo State that no stone would be left unturned in the case,” Ayanlade said.
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